I am perplexed by Emily Lau Wai-hing's apparent understanding of the key problem facing Hong Kong and her role as a founder of the Anti-Tung Solidarity coalition ('A new force', August 13) which flies in the face of such understanding.
Ms Lau implies that even pro-China politicians see that Mr Tung should step down, but that Beijing cannot appear to bow to the wishes of the people. This suggests that this change is possible if China gives an exit strategy where the goal can be achieved without loss of face or setting an unwelcome precedent on the mainland. The very name Anti-Tung Solidarity, however, stands as an affront to Beijing and, therefore, as an obstacle on the road to such change.
Politics is about achieving objectives in spite of the opposition, not simply about standing in opposition. The pro-democracy camp would do well to remember this if it is to play a leading role in realising universal suffrage in Hong Kong.
STEPHEN ROSS, Lamma Island
